My Word For 2025: Appreciation
The concept of appreciation has been widely researched across various disciplines, including psychology, neuroscience, and organizational behavior. Here’s an overview of the key findings about the word and its impact:
1. Psychological Impact
??? ?? Positive Emotions: Expressing and receiving appreciation fosters positive emotions, like happiness and gratitude. Research by Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, shows that gratitude exercises (e.g., expressing appreciation) significantly enhance well-being and life satisfaction.
??? ? Stress Reduction: Appreciation activates the brain’s reward system and reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels.
??? ? Resilience: Studies indicate that people who feel appreciated are more resilient in the face of adversity.
2. Social and Relational Impact
??? ?? Stronger Relationships: Appreciation strengthens interpersonal bonds by reinforcing trust and a sense of belonging. Dr. John Gottman, a renowned relationship expert, emphasizes the role of expressing appreciation in sustaining healthy relationships.
??? ?? Conflict Resolution: Expressing appreciation, even during disagreements, diffuses tension and encourages constructive dialogue.
3. Neuroscientific Findings
??? ? Dopamine Release: Receiving or giving appreciation stimulates the brain’s reward system, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.
??? ? Neuroplasticity: Acts of appreciation and gratitude can rewire the brain over time, promoting a more optimistic and empathetic outlook.
4. Workplace and Leadership Impact
??? ? Employee Engagement: Gallup research shows that employees who feel appreciated are more engaged, productive, and loyal.
??? ? Reduced Turnover: A 2012 study by the American Psychological Association found that 93% of employees who felt valued were more motivated to do their best at work.
??? ? Leadership Effectiveness: Leaders who express genuine appreciation cultivate higher levels of trust and collaboration within their teams.
5. Health Benefits
??? ????????? Physical Health: Research indicates that feelings of appreciation and gratitude are linked to better sleep, lower blood pressure, and improved immune function.
??? ????????? Mental Health: Regular expressions of appreciation reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by shifting focus from negative thoughts to positive experiences.
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6. Educational Impact
??? ? Student Performance: Studies in educational settings have found that students perform better and are more motivated when teachers express appreciation for their efforts.
??? ?? Classroom Dynamics: Appreciative environments promote inclusivity and mutual respect among students.
Practical Applications
??? ?? Gratitude Journals: Keeping a daily log of things one appreciates has been shown to enhance happiness and reduce stress.
??? ? Appreciation Rituals: In families, workplaces, or social groups, creating rituals for expressing appreciation (e.g., thank-you notes or verbal acknowledgments) fosters a positive atmosphere.
??? ?? Feedback Culture: Embedding appreciation into feedback, like focusing on strengths before areas of improvement, enhances learning and motivation
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Board Member, Associate Vice President - Innovation & Economic Development at George Mason University
1 个月I always appreciate YOU, Steve. I look forward to our conversations - the best intellectual conversations with the most laughter.
Self-Awareness Trainer and Coach, Author
1 个月Steve, Thanks for creating an article about word of the year. My word for this year is build. I will build my strength, a legacy, and so much more. I also have a feeling for the year - Joy for 2025. Check out my blog about feelings for the year. https://larg.com/2020/01/feeling-for-the-year/
independent designer at s j z design
1 个月So appreciate you and your leadership to us.
Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at George Mason University
1 个月As always, I appreciate your insights, Steve. And I am hugely grateful for your sustained engagement at George Mason and in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Happy New Year! Ann